Our Team
Local News
Editor communitylocalseditor@gmail.com
Advertising
Louise Hogan – 0862249299 louise@irishmediagroup.ie
Sean Maguire (Publisher) - 087 915 9052 seanmaguire@irishmediagroup.ie
Production
Tim Evans communitylocalsdesigner@gmail.com
Contact us
Rush Local Magazine communitylocalseditor@gmail.com Facebook.com/RushLocalMag
Designated Pick up Points
Tesco, Rush SuoerValu, Rush Rush Communty Centre
2026 promises to be a big year for all in Fingal
With the first few weeks of 2026 already behind us, Fingal stands at an exciting crossroads, blending its rich heritage with a strong sense of momentum and ambition. From the coastal communities of Balbriggan, Rush, Lusk and Donabate to the thriving urban centre of Swords and the historic charm of Malahide, the year ahead promises growth, opportunity and renewed community spirit across the county.
Balbriggan continues to evolve as one of Fingal’s most dynamic towns. With ongoing regeneration projects, investment in public spaces and a growing cultural scene, 2026 looks set to further enhance its role as a vibrant coastal hub. Improved amenities and community-led initiatives are strengthening local pride while attracting new residents and businesses.
Swords remains the beating heart of Fingal, balancing its role as a major economic centre with the preservation of its historic identity. As the town continues to expand, 2026 will see further focus on sustainable development, transport connectivity and quality of life, ensuring that growth benefits both long-standing residents and newcomers alike.
Malahide, with its village atmosphere and renowned coastline, continues to look forward while respecting its past. Investment in local infrastructure, tourism and community facilities will help protect what makes Malahide special, while supporting a lively local economy and an active cultural calendar.
Along the coast, Rush, Lusk and Donabate are also poised for a positive year ahead. Rush’s fishing heritage and growing town centre, Lusk’s strong community roots, and Donabate’s unique blend of seaside living and village life all contribute to Fingal’s diverse character. In 2026, improved transport links, housing developments and environmental initiatives aim to support sustainable growth without losing the identity of each area.
Looking forward to 2026, Fingal is defined by balance: progress alongside preservation, growth guided by community, and development shaped by local voices. Together, these towns and villages reflect a county confident in its future—one that values connection, resilience and a shared sense of place.
The Locals Team
IRISHMEDIAGROUP
publishing | design | print | web
Published by www.irishmediagroup.ie
STRICT DEADLINE FOR NEXT EDITION: Submissions by the 15th for inclusion in next months edition
Remember Us thanks all who donated or volunteered in 2025
Remember us would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year and express our sincere gratitude to everyone who supported us in 2025.
We had a very successful year and our membership grew.
We continue to look for people to go on CE/TUS schemes and volunteers to help us continue and grow.
We look forward to 2026 and even bigger and better things to happen. Watch this space!!!
Give us a ring on 0860457003 or drop us an email at hello@ rememberus.ie if you are interested in supporting us in anyway or if you would like to become a volunteer etc.
Do You Really have mortgage protection?
By Dave Kavanagh
Two important things to consider with both having and needing mortgage protection life cover. Firstly, there are those who have had mortgages for a number of years with mortgage protection life cover done in conjunction with it. For these people, it is well worth checking the current level of cover and remaining term on their mortgage protection and the same on their mortgage balance and term, to make sure there is sufficient cover. For example, in 2020 during the severe Covid lockdowns, many mortgage holders availed of a 6 month payment break. During this period, their mortgage protection cover will have continued to reduce, while their mortgage balances may have stayed level, or even increased if interest was capitalised. This could mean a shortfall in the event of a claim, meaning that the mortgage does not get fully cleared and there is a balance owing.
Possibly more important to consider, is people who are planning to get a mortgage soon, or in the near future. They have saved regularly to build a deposit, maintained stable employment, avoided taking out new loans (and made sure any existing or previous loan obligations were paid in full and on time), conducted their current accounts efficiently, etc. but sadly, they don’t get to proceed with their house/apartment purchase
(certainly not in the time frame they wanted to) because they cannot get their mortgage protection life cover accepted. This could be due to their current or past medical history, or something simple like they have been referred for a test that has not yet been done. It’s why many are arranging their mortgage protection cover well in advance of drawing down their mortgage. Once in place, any new medical issues are not relevant. It can even save them money, as 36 years paying a cheaper premium (before another birthday has passed) is cheaper than 35 years at the higher premium.
Dave Kavanagh QFA has been advising people financially for over 25 years. For quotes or information (with no cost or obligation) he can be contacted by emailing info@financialcompanion.ie or use the contact form on www.financialcompanion. ie or @Davekav_advice on Twitter and Instagram. Combined with his previous role of gym/nutrition adviser, he regularly gives talks and workshops at seminars and events for groups, companies and government departments on financial wellbeing, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM, LMFM and TV3.
Rush Tidy Towns: Celebrating Achievements and Looking Ahead
Rush Tidy Towns continues to make a real impact on our community and coastline, with recent milestones highlighting the dedication of volunteers and the strength of local support.
National Recognition for Coastal Care
Rush Tidy Towns was honoured with the Clean Coasts Community Action Award for its outstanding efforts to protect and enhance our beaches. From planting Marram Grass to organising clean-ups and promoting sustainable beach use, these initiatives have helped preserve the natural beauty of our coastline. This award is a testament to the hard work of volunteers and the community spirit that drives these projects.
Tiny Towns – Our Future in Action
Behind every vibrant flowerbed and litter-free street is a team of young volunteers from the Tiny Towns group. These kids have been busy throughout the year. From watering plants, cleaning beaches and woods, helping at local events, and even contributing to the St. Patrick’s Day parade. Their energy and creativity remind us that the future of Rush is in good hands. A special thanks goes to local businesses, including The Salty Blonde
and The Little Chip, for supporting the group with gifts and vouchers, and to the 38th Rush Scout Group for their continued involvement.
A Calendar That Captures Rush
The annual Rush Tidy Towns calendar has become a much-anticipated tradition. Launched at a festive event in the Strand Bar, the calendar showcases stunning scenes of Rush, selected from a photography competition open to all residents. The calendar is an important fundraiser that helps sustain Tidy Towns projects. Available in local shops, the calendar is a perfect way to share a piece of Rush with friends and family near and far. A big thank you to our sponsors for making this possible.
Why It Matters
These achievements aren’t just about awards or events, they’re about creating a cleaner, greener, and more connected community. Every beach clean, every flower planted, and every calendar sold contributes to making Rush a better place to live. If you’d like to get involved, whether through volunteering or supporting our initiatives, reach out to Rush Tidy Towns tidytownsrush@gmail.com. Together, we can keep the momentum going in 2026!
CommunityLocals.ie
Treat your nearest and dearest this February
Love is in the air…. February is a time to treat yourself and those you love. I’m taking my daughters to Arc Cinema Drogheda on Galentine’s day for their 90’s throwback movie marathon. For Valentine’s Day, my husband and I usually stay in to watch a movie and have a nice dinner together and we’ll go out for dinner on a night when its not so busy. Or if we’re lucky, we might manage a romantic night away to somewhere special like Farnham Estate in Cavan, that’s one of our favourite places. There are some great shows coming up in The Lark Balbriggan and we might book into Bracken Court for dinner and B&B to make an overnight trip out of it. Any chance to carve out a little romance!
If you are looking to get a cool gift for someone special, www.wanapix. ie have a wide range of personalised gifts. Use code MAMSWANAPIX26 for 10% off. I got my husband a personalised glass and he loves it, he uses it every day. He got me a pink heart shaped mouse mat, which I use every day! Their snow globes are very cute – they even have one that is filled with little love hearts. Their
personalised calendars are brill gifts. My Mam is already dropping hints that she’d like a calendar for Mother’s day, so we know what to get her!
Hampers & Co. have lots of fabulous hampers. Chocolate Garden of Ireland has lovely chocolate goodies. Tipperary Crystal have beautiful handbags and jewellery and they are all Irish companies, which we love.
For a romantic day out, take a walk with Andean Alpacas in Mullingar. Alpacas are gorgeous animals and it’s such a peaceful experience.
National Concert Hall has lots of shows coming up; tickets to a concert is a wonderful Valentine’s gift
Coffee is a clever gift idea and Irish brand, Artessa, roasts delicious fusion blends here in Ireland. Great gift for coffee lovers.
If you are on a tight budget don’t worry, most Mammies are happy to lounge in a bubble bath without interruption and have dinner made for them. If you can stretch to a takeaway, even better! A little ‘me time’ makes all the difference to busy Mammies!
For more ideas for Valentine’s gifting, head over to www.mams.ie
GET LOCAL NEWS FROM YOUR COMMUNITY RIGHT HERE..
By Dr. Carla Lluch, Veterinary Practitioner
February: The Month of Love and Fertility
St Brigid’s Day marks the beginning of spring and is linked to Brigid, the ancient fertility goddess and patron saint of Ireland. Just two weeks later, on the 14th of February, we celebrate love with St Valentine. For this reason, it feels like the perfect time to talk about reproductive health in our pets.
For many years, there have been different opinions about whether early neutering is always the best option. Recently, the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) published updated guidelines to help standardise neutering protocols worldwide, from our Emerald Isle to the beaches of Mexico and the cold fields of Greenland.
Here is a simple summary of the key points:
• There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach.
The decision to neuter should be individual, taking into account the pet’s species, breed, sex, size, lifestyle and environment.
• Timing matters
In some large and giant breed dogs, delaying neutering until skeletal maturity may reduce the risk of certain joint disorders. In other cases, earlier neutering may be beneficial.
• Benefits and risks must be balanced.
Neutering can reduce the risk of reproductive diseases and unwanted litters, but it may also be associated with changes in metabolism, weight gain.
• Behaviour and population control are also important considerations.
Neutering can help reduce roaming, hormonedriven behaviours and unwanted pregnancies, benefiting both pets and the wider community.
Ultimately, this is a very personal decision, and there is no right or wrong choice, only the right choice for your pet and your family.
At Village Vets Lusk, we are always happy to discuss neutering options openly during a consultation. These discussions are free of charge, and together we can create the most appropriate and informed plan for your furry family member.”
Discover the benefits of Havening and how it could help you With Susan
Havening I have been asked many times in my professional field what is Havening? So this month we are going to have a brief look at what Havening is and who can benefit from this wonderful treatment. Havening is a gentle, touch-based psycho-sensory technique used to help people reduce emotional distress and build resilience. It is often used alongside coaching or therapy rather than as a standalone medical treatment.
The following are the principal benefits of Havening.
1. It reduces emotional charges around past events: Havening aims to weaken the intense emotional “tag” attached to traumatic or highly stressful memories, so you can recall them with far less fear, shame, or distress.
2. This is an amazing treatment to help reduce rapid anxiety and stress relief: Many clients report feeling calmer, lighter, and more relaxed within or shortly after a session, as the soothing touch and structured process down-regulate the threat response in the brain.
It helps the nervous system by the following ways
A. Shifts the brain out of threat mode: The repetitive, gentle touch appears to stimulate slow delta brain waves and calming Neuro-chemicals (chemicals in the brain) such as serotonin and oxytocin, which support a sense of safety and reduce the response we call fight or flight or panic,
B. Supports the nervous system by helping to “rewire”: By pairing a previously distressing memory with a deeply relaxed state, Havening is proposed to reduce synaptic strength in the circuits that kept that memory highly charged, so
triggers lose their impact over time.
I’ve been asked what are the everyday uses of Havening
A. Emotional difficulties: Practitioners use Havening with issues such as phobias, trauma memories, grief, humiliation experiences, and persistent anxiety or suffers of panic attacks.
B. Performance and wellbeing: It can also be used for confidence, performance blocks, unwanted cravings, and general emotional regulation, helping clients feel more resourceful day to day.
The biggest benefit from a practitioner’s perspective would be
A. Non invasive and client centred: The touch is gentle, the client remains fully conscious and
is in complete control, and the technique can be adapted or slowed easily, which can support a strong sense of safety and empowerment.
B. While teaching this in my clinics over many years it is an incredibly easy technique to be taught as a self-care treatment. Clients have learned self Havening techniques to use between sessions, giving them a concrete tool to regulate stress and support ongoing integration of therapeutic work.
C. All that is required from the client is for them to share just a bit about their story as to why they would require this treatment, that way it can become a more tailored fitted session and can be applied for the individual. In wellness Susan If there are any specific topics, diseases or disorders that you would like me to cover in further issues please feel free to email me at. info@ susangrahamcoaching.com
Musings of an OAP
By Jon Kavanagh
Ah, February 2026: a grand stretch in the evenings, the daffodils battling their way through the soil, the birds making plans for nest construction, and a free travel pass winging its way towards my letter box. Yes, despite my mind strongly protesting, it’s not true, I am joining the ranks of the Old Age Pensioners. I think I prefer the term Third Agers, as I’m in denial about being old. Isn’t it strange how one’s perception of age changes throughout life. People we once saw as ancient were often only a decade or so older than ourselves. As I embrace retirement, my penchant for nostalgia takes me back to another time and place. Where do the years go?
Volunteer to make a difference
Remember us would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year and thank most sincerely everyone who supported us in 2025. It is appreciated by all our members and their families. We look forward to your continued support in 2026.
We are constantly looking for volunteers. Please see poster for day and times we require help. If you have an hour or two to spare, please contact us on 0860457003 or email us at hello@rememberus.ie for more information.
WE WANT YOUR LOCAL NEWS!!
• Do you run a Local Sports Club or Team?
• Are you a new business or a business celebrating an anniversary?
• Are you running or hosting a Local event or Fundraiser? • Do you have a story to tell?
• A Special Birthday, Christening, Communion..
Seems like only yesterday I was a long-haired teenager with visions of a future that would make Walter Mitty look unimaginative. Times were different back then; assertiveness was frowned upon and my mother saw it as her duty to nip notions of grandeur in the bud, with the widely used reality checks: “Pride before a fall”, Self-praise is no praise”. and “You’re just a cog in the wheel”. My first teacher in primary school nicked named me ‘the spaceman’, because I was always looking out the window and day dreaming. Neurodiversity wasn’t recognized in those days. That lack of ability to concentrate, coupled with an undetected need for glasses guaranteed me permanent residency in the dunce’s corner. My greatest school achievement (and there weren’t many), came the day I pulled the wool over the headmaster’s eyes. For homework he gave us the task (which I completely forgot
about) of writing a composition about a dream we had. Imagine my horror when he asked me to stand up and read out my effort. Holding a blank copybook in front of me, I “read” a tale about being chased by a lion, for which he complemented me. School days in that era may not have been the best days of our lives, but I guess they made us who we are.
“How will you fill the time?”, people ask when I say I am retiring. Well, these days we are spoiled for choice with: Mens/Womens sheds, walking clubs, active retirement associations, bridge clubs etc. Across Fingal there are ample opportunities to volunteer; whether helping out the tidy towns, working in a charity shop, delivering the meals on wheels or indeed writing or taking photographs for the local magazine. Heres to the third age!
Rush Local Magazine NEEDS YOU! VOLUNTEERS WANTED
A Chaotic Ping-Pong Masterpiece
By Jack Shanley
In the chaotic, neon-veined world of Josh Safdie’s Marty Supreme, the humblest of sports—table tennis—is elevated to a high-stakes blood sport. It is a film that breathes with a frantic, jittery energy, feeling less like a traditional biopic and more like a two-hour-long panic attack that you somehow never want to end.
At the centre of this whirlwind is Timothée Chalamet, who delivers a performance so kinetic it feels like he’s physically vibrating off the screen. Playing Marty Mauser, a fictionalized version of the real-life ping-pong hustler Marty Reisman, Chalamet sheds his usual “boyish charm” for something far more jagged. He is a man possessed by a singular, borderlinedelusional ambition: to make the world respect a game played with celluloid balls and wooden paddles.
Working for the first time without his brother Benny, Josh Safdie proves his solo voice is just as loud and uncompromising. The film is set in a grimy, tactile 1950s New York, but it’s scored with anachronistic 80s synth-pop and edited with a modern, “grind set” ferocity. It’s a sensory overload that perfectly mirrors Marty’s internal state. He is a hustler, a salesman, and—at times—a deeply frustrating narcissist who treats his loved ones like obstacles to be bypassed.
The supporting cast is nothing but fantastic. We see great performances all round but especially from Gwyneth Paltrow and Tyler, the Creator.
What makes Marty Supreme linger is its refusal to apologize for its protagonist. Marty is not a “hero” in the classic sense; he is a man who steals from his uncle and neglects his pregnant girlfriend (Odessa A’zion) to chase a trophy in London or a match in Japan. In a sense he’s essentially the ultimate ‘antihero’.
The film asks a difficult question: Does greatness require a level of selfishness that verges on the sociopathic? By the time the credits roll to a pulsing needle drop, you might not like Marty, but you’ve been thoroughly seduced by his momentum. It’s a messy, loud, and brilliantly original piece of cinema that captures the “American Dream” not in a romantic fantasy way, but as a relentless, sweaty, and singular obsession.
I’d recommend checking out ‘Marty Supreme’ and see what you think of it; I shall give it a score of FOUR Stars. You can go check it out at your local cinema today. Director Josh Safdie – Rating: 15A – Genre: Sport/ Drama – Run Time: 2h 29m Language: English. For more film content please follow
WIN €50 !!! WIN €50 !!! WIN €50 !!! WIN €50 !!!
WE WANT YOUR LOCAL NEWS!!
• Do you run a Local Sports Club or Team?
• Are you a new business or a business celebrating an anniversary?
• Are you running or hosting a Local event or Fundraiser? • Do you have a story to tell?
This is easy… we are offering you the chance to win €50. All you have to do is correctly fill in the crossword and discover the name of an area in Fingal spelt out in the coloured squares. Then send the completed crossword and your answer by email, with your name, address and telephone number to communitylocals@ gmail.com before 5pm on the 16th of this month. The first correct entry to be drawnwill win €50..Good luck Across
1. A place for old things. (6)
5. Atoll and swimwear. (6)
10. This economic sector employs over 200,000 people in Ireland. (7)
11. Said something unproven. (7)
12. Expression of petulant annoyance. (4)
13. Fruit with green rind and acid juice. (5)
15. Move swiftly and lightly. (4)
17. The colour of anger. (3)
19. Aid in time of danger, particularly from a siege. (6)
21. The largest city in Spain. (6)
22. A brief account covering the main points of something. (7)
23. Coarse, crude, common. (6)
25. Stinging antiseptic. (6)
28. Proposal at an auction to buy at a specified price. (3)
30. A narrow thin strip of wood used as backing for plaster. (4)
31. Recreate something on a smaller scale. (5)
32. Long poem about a hero’s deeds. (4)
35. Any of the four substances air, water, fire, and earth. (7)
36. Liquorice-flavoured seed or oil. (7)
37. White mineral used to make cement. (6)
38. Join the military. (6)
Down
2. Out of the ordinary. (7)
3. This land is our land. (4)
4. Written account of a life. (6)
5. Made stronger with wood or iron. (6)
6. Curly Brassica. (4)
7. Someone who constantly criticises in a petty way. (7)
8. A state of near-unconsciousness. (6)
9. Prepared for publication. (6)
14. Half woman, half fish. (7)
16. Took a filed test again. (5)
18. First citizen of Dublin. (5)
20. Dense coat of a mammals. (3)
21. Tissue scanner. (3)
23. A silky densely piled fabric with a plain back. (6)
24. Government organised gamble. (7)
26. Make a deep impact on someone. (7)
27. Pre-Euro currency in Portugal. (6)
28. The lowest side of anything. (6)
29. Ten years. (6)
33. Fixed charges for professional charges. (4)
34. Last legal document. (4)
SUDOKU ANSWERS
